The data centre in Ashton Old Baths has won a prestigious international award recognising the quality of its architecture.
To win the 2021 Global Data Centre Architecture award, the innovative design beat competition from across the globe, including Europe, USA, Australia and Singapore.
Ashton Old Baths Data Centre is the hub of Tameside’s unique digital infrastructure and a crucial part of the wider St Petersfield redevelopment plan. It will provide access to high-tech services and state-of-the-art facilities that many existing and new businesses to the area increasingly expect and require.
In July, work on the final transformation of the Grade II* listed former Victorian baths was completed which, along with the data centre, brought more workspace, co-working spaces, communal areas, meeting rooms and shared kitchens.
In redeveloping the location the aim was to keep the Victorian elegance of the building and create a digital hub inside. Extensive work has been done by MCAU, the architect for the redevelopment, and Sudlow’s, who designed, built and now manage the data facility.
The award was decided by a public vote where more than 4,000 people took part, choosing from 11 locations in what was a very close field.
Cllr Oliver Ryan, Tameside Council executive member for Finance and Economic Growth, said: “The transformation of Ashton Old Baths is nothing short of phenomenal and I’m delighted to see it receive the international recognition it truly deserves. This building is a true jewel in the Tameside crown and the data centre will be essential for our borough for years to come.
“I can’t thank our team, our partners at Oxford Innovation, MCAU and Sudlow’s enough for bringing this project to life. This state-of-the-art hub shows the extent of our digital ambitions for St Petersfield and the wider Tameside area.”
